Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe

 

Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe: The Ultimate Guide

Sweetened condensed milk is one of those magical ingredients in the kitchen. Rich, creamy, and intensely sweet, it transforms ordinary desserts into decadent treats. From classic caramel flans to fudgy brownies and indulgent coffee drinks, this ingredient is a staple in both professional and home kitchens.

While it’s widely available in stores, making sweetened condensed milk at home is surprisingly easy, cost-effective, and allows you to control the ingredients for a fresher, more flavorful result. In this post, we’ll cover:

1. What sweetened condensed milk is

2. The history and origins of condensed milk

3. Essential ingredients and kitchen tools

4. Step-by-step homemade recipe

5. Variations for dietary needs

6. Common mistakes and troubleshooting

7. How to store and preserve homemade condensed milk

8. Culinary uses: sweet and savory

9. Creative recipes featuring homemade sweetened condensed milk

10. Fun facts and cultural significance

By the end, you’ll be ready to whip up your own batch of this versatile ingredient and explore its culinary magic.

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1. What Is Sweetened Condensed Milk?

Sweetened condensed milk (SCM) is a thick, syrupy milk product made by removing about 60% of the water from regular milk and adding sugar. The sugar acts as a preservative, giving it a long shelf life even without refrigeration.

Key characteristics:

• Thick and creamy texture

• Very sweet flavor

• Light caramel color (especially when cooked or canned)

Unlike evaporated milk, which has no added sugar, sweetened condensed milk is intended to provide both sweetness and richness to recipes.

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2. The History and Origins

The story of condensed milk begins in the 19th century.

• Nicolas Appert and Early Preservation: Early experiments in milk preservation inspired techniques for creating longer-lasting dairy products.

• Gail Borden Jr., 1856: American inventor Gail Borden Jr. patented a process for condensed milk, primarily to help supply food to soldiers during the Civil War.

• Global Popularity: Sweetened condensed milk became widely used in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, forming the backbone of iconic desserts like Brazilian brigadeiros, Vietnamese coffee, and Filipino leche flan.

Its popularity endures because of its convenience, shelf stability, and versatility.

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3. Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools

Making sweetened condensed milk at home is straightforward.

3.1 Ingredients

• Milk: Whole milk is ideal for richness; 2% can also work.

• Sugar: Granulated white sugar is standard, but you can use brown sugar for a caramel flavor.

• Optional: A pinch of salt and vanilla extract enhance flavor.

3.2 Kitchen Tools

• Medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan

• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Glass jar or airtight container for storage

• Optional: fine mesh sieve (for extra smoothness)

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4. Step-by-Step Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe

Here’s a foolproof recipe to make approximately 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk

• 2/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine milk and sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Stir to dissolve sugar.

2. Heat mixture: Place the pan over medium-low heat and warm the milk until small bubbles form around the edges. Avoid boiling.

3. Simmer gently: Reduce heat to low and let it simmer, stirring frequently, for 30–40 minutes. The milk will reduce by about half and thicken.

4. Check consistency: When it coats the back of a spoon and has a creamy texture, it’s ready.

5. Add vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

6. Cool and store: Let it cool to room temperature. Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

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5. Variations for Dietary Needs

Homemade sweetened condensed milk can be adapted for various diets:

5.1. Vegan Version

• Replace dairy milk with coconut milk or almond milk.

• Use maple syrup or agave instead of sugar for additional sweetness.

5.2. Low-Sugar Version

• Substitute sugar with stevia, erythritol, or other sugar substitutes.

• The texture may be slightly thinner but still usable in recipes.

5.3. Flavored Versions

• Chocolate condensed milk: Stir in 2–3 tablespoons cocoa powder during simmering.

• Coffee condensed milk: Dissolve 1–2 tablespoons instant coffee granules into the milk.

• Caramel condensed milk: Use brown sugar instead of white sugar.

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6. Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

Even with a simple recipe, mistakes can happen. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Burning or curdling: Keep heat low and stir frequently. Heavy-bottomed pans prevent scorching.

• Too thin: Simmer longer to reduce water content.

• Grainy texture: Dissolve sugar completely before simmering. Strain if necessary.

• Overly sweet: Adjust sugar to taste during initial stages.

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7. How to Store and Preserve Homemade Condensed Milk

• Refrigeration: Store in a clean, airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

• Freezing: Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before use.

• Shelf life: Homemade versions won’t last as long as canned products because they lack commercial preservatives, but proper storage ensures quality.

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8. Culinary Uses: Sweet and Savory

Sweetened condensed milk is extremely versatile. Some of the most popular uses include:

8.1. Desserts

• Caramel sauce / dulce de leche: Heat condensed milk slowly to make rich caramel.

• Fudge: Combine with chocolate and butter for a creamy treat.

• Tres leches cake: Essential ingredient for soaking sponge cakes.

• Key lime pie: Provides sweetness and creaminess.

8.2. Beverages

• Coffee: Vietnamese iced coffee uses sweetened condensed milk as a sweetener.

• Milkshakes: Adds creaminess and sweetness.

• Hot chocolate: Replace sugar with condensed milk for extra richness.

8.3. Baking

• Cookies and brownies: Enhances moisture and flavor.

• Cakes: Adds softness and density.

• Tarts and custards: Thickens fillings while sweetening naturally.

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9. Creative Recipes Featuring Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk

Here are some detailed recipes to explore the versatility of homemade sweetened condensed milk:

9.1. Homemade Caramel (Dulce de Leche)

• Pour condensed milk into a saucepan.

• Simmer on very low heat for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it becomes golden brown.

• Use as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, or waffles.

9.2. Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)

• Brew strong coffee or espresso.

• In a glass, mix 2 tablespoons condensed milk with hot coffee.

• Stir, pour over ice, and enjoy a creamy, sweet coffee drink.

9.3. No-Bake Chocolate Fudge

• Mix 1 cup condensed milk with 2 cups chocolate chips.

• Heat gently until chocolate melts.

• Pour into a pan, chill, and cut into squares.

9.4. Classic Tres Leches Cake

• Bake a simple sponge cake.

• Mix 1 cup condensed milk with 1 cup evaporated milk and 1 cup cream.

• Pour mixture over cooled cake, refrigerate, and serve chilled.

9.5. Flan / Caramel Custard

• Combine condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla for custard.

• Pour over caramelized sugar and bake in a water bath for creamy flan.

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10. Fun Facts and Cultural Significance

• Condensed milk revolutionized dessert-making in the 19th century due to its long shelf life.

• In Latin America, it’s considered essential in traditional desserts like brigadeiros (Brazil) and leche flan (Philippines).

• In Asia, it’s commonly used as a sweetener in coffee, tea, and pastries.

• Homemade versions allow chefs to experiment with flavors, thickness, and sweetness levels, reflecting personal taste and regional culinary practices.

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11. Tips for Perfect Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk

• Patience is key: Slow simmering prevents curdling and ensures smooth texture.

• Use heavy-bottomed pans: Reduces the risk of burning.

• Taste as you go: Adjust sweetness and flavor before cooling.

• Customize flavors: Vanilla, coffee, chocolate, or spices can be added for unique twists.

• Store properly: Refrigerate or freeze in small portions to preserve freshness.

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Conclusion

Making homemade sweetened condensed milk is easier than most people think, and the results are far superior to store-bought versions in flavor and freshness. Whether you’re baking, making desserts, or creating indulgent beverages, homemade condensed milk adds a rich, creamy sweetness that elevates any dish.

With this guide, you now have the knowledge to make, customize, and use sweetened condensed milk in a variety of ways. From traditional desserts to innovative creations, this humble ingredient can transform everyday recipes into culinary masterpieces.

So grab your milk, sugar, and a saucepan, and start experimenting—your desserts and drinks will never be the same again.